One penny. One dirty old penny. The dirty old worn out eroded coin you found in the parking lot of a gas station could make a difference in a child’s life.

Pennies for Patients is a program dedicated to raising money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The Powell Panther’s N.H.S. (National Honor Society) program gives the community a chance to give back.

“So Pennies for Patients is a district-wide fundraiser that NHS decided to do and it just raises money for patients with leukemia cancer and you know just to help them with treatment,” NHS member and junior Natalie Dillivan said.

Schools across the country have chosen this program because it opens up a door to charity work and philanthropy. There are individualized programs for each grade level that include life lessons that pair with the curriculum.

“We are excited,” said NHS President senior Lucy Sullivan. “To support an organization that has affected such an impact.”

The fundraiser will run through Feb. 28.

“The goal is to raise the most money and,” Dillivan said. “We used donuts as the prize for the class as an incentive but I think its just to raise money and so that we can help the patients.”

The LLS (Leukemia and Lymphoma Society) not only is  helping fund research but they are also trying to make sure the patients can have access to the care they need even in remission. This organization prioritize the need for affordable health care and the expenses that go along with the treatments. The LLS (Leukemia and Lymphoma Society) has a goal to educate the masses on the journey these patients have to take through programs like this.

“It doesn’t just have to be pennies,” said Dillivan.

Every day when you walk into class you may have noticed a box. That little grey box is how you can help find a cure.

For more information about the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, click here.